On a Sunday Afternoon

"On a Sunday Afternoon" is a song by American hip hop duo A Lighter Shade of Brown and the second single from their debut studio album, Brown & Proud (1990). Featuring singer Shiro Stokes and radio disc jockey Huggy Boy, it was produced by Jammin' James Carter. It is the group's most successful song, peaking at number 39 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching number one in New Zealand for two weeks; it is certified gold in the latter country.

Background and content

Clif Richey, the manager of A Lighter Shade of Brown, wanted them to write a song with a vibe similar to that of "Summertime" by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, which was a hit at the time, but about what their friends and family did at the park. As a result, the duo composed "On a Sunday Afternoon", in which they rap about topics such as "jamming the oldie tunes" and "kids playing on the merry-go-round".

Samples

The song contains samples of "Groovin'" by the Rascals, "Crystal Blue Persuasion" by Tommy James and the Shondells, "Papa Was Too" by Joe Tex and "La-La (Means I Love You)" by the Delfonics.

Music video

The music video was shot at Legg Lake Park in the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area. It sees the duo rapping and cruising around in the parking lot.

Track listings

US cassette single; UK and Australian CD single

1. "On a Sunday Afternoon" (radio mix) – 3:44
2. "A Sunday Afternoon Groove" – 3:47

UK 7-inch single

A. "On a Sunday Afternoon" (radio mix) – 3:24

B. "Brown & Proud" (featuring Chulo) – 3:45

UK 12-inch single

A1. "On a Sunday Afternoon" (Ozone mix) – 3:45

B1. "On a Sunday Afternoon" (radio mix) – 3:24

B2. "Brown & Proud" (featuring Chulo) – 3:45

Charts

Certifications

Release history

References